Seventh Generation Club scholarships announced

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Four young Native people will find it a little easier to pay their expenses as they pursue their dreams of higher education, thanks to the a new initiative by BC Hydro.

The first ever list of Seventh Generation Club scholarship winners was announced in mid-January. BC Hydro has introduced four new scholarships to be awarded annually to members of the Seventh Generation Club. The club encourages First Nations youth to make healthy choices, participate in sports and the community, and stay in school.

The scholarships are offered to individuals who are, or have been members of the Seventh Generation Club for at least one year, who are residents of B.C., and who are attending school or who are attending a public post-secondary institution in any field of study.

"The intent of BC Hydro's scholarship program is to recognize academic and community achievement by Seventh Generation Club members," said BC Hydro Outreach Program manager Georgy Good. "We fully support the club and these scholarships reinforce our commitment to encourage club members to reach their career goals."

The club is administered by the First Nations Schools Association, under the guidance of a management board. It is funded through the sponsorship of BC Hydro, the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, First Nations Chiefs' Health Committee, Health Canada, and the Vancouver Canucks. Approximately 6,000 students throughout the province are members of the club.

Marc Weget of Hazelton will receive a $1,000 cheque that will assist him in his studies at the University of Northern British Columbia. He plans to teach biology and chemistry after he graduates. Weget is active in sports and teaches traditional Gitxsan songs to the young people in his community.

Candice Johnson, a Grade 12 student at Hazelton Secondary School, wants to be a nurse. The $500 scholarship she was awarded will help her take a step in that direction. The Kispiox First Nation member attracted the attention of the scholarship committee by working with young people in her community and by being active in sports.

Two high school students from Keremeos were each awarded $250. Brandy Baptiste and Jennifer Eunson, both Ktunaza/Kinbasket First Nation members were recognized for their activities in their community.